Replying to a question from Tory MP Bob Stewart, Ms Mordaunt said: “Mr Speaker, on the 24th July we will hold a global disability conference here in London organised by the UK Government, by the Kenya government and by the International Disability Alliance.

”For too long in the world’s poorest countries, disabled people have not been able to reach their full potential because of stigma or not enough practical support.

“I am proud to be focused on this area which has been neglected for too long.

Mr Stewart drew some laughs as he attempted to sign himself, gesturing to his knee, as he began his own question on what Britain was doing to help “friend of the UK” Somaliland with the words: “Mr Speaker, as a boy…”

The July 24 summit at London’s Olympic Park is organised by the UK and Kenyan governments and the International Disability Alliance, and will bring together other governments, the private sector, charities and donors to agree ambitious commitments.

About a billion people, one in every eight on the planet, has a disability and some 33million children, more than half of youngsters with disabilities, do not go to school.

As well as being International Development Secretary, Ms Mordaunt is the Equalities Minister where she has overall responsibility for tackling discrimination against any group, including people with disabilities.